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6 bold predictions for Patriots vs. Cardinals

By Connor Fulton

Aug 18, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (10) hand off the ball to New England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount (29) against the Chicago Bears in the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 18, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (10) hand off the ball to New England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount (29) against the Chicago Bears in the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /
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Malcom Brown Patriots
Jul 28, 2016; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive tackle Malcom Brown (90) takes the field for training camp at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Patriots’ defense won’t allow more than 75 rushing yards.

A major storyline coming into this game is the two-headed backfield monster of David Johnson and Chris Johnson. The Patriots must, and will, do everything in their power to keep the rising star and the former star in check, and such an effort will heavily involve sophomore pro Malcom Brown and former Cardinal Alan Branch on the interior. Additionally, star linebackers Jamie Collins and Dont’a Hightower will be called upon to fill the gaps from the second level.

3 key matchups to watch in Week 1

By holding the Cardinals under 75 yards on the ground, the Patriots will force Carson Palmer to shoulder the load. And that is perfectly fine, as the Patriots’ secondary has been upgraded significantly over the offseason and in the past week with the addition of Eric Rowe. Certainly the return of the starting four defensive backs Malcolm Butler, Logan Ryan, Devin McCourty and Patrick Chung, as well as the solid nickel group of Justin Coleman, Cyrus Jones and Jonathan Jones, will keep the Cardinals’ aerial attack in check.

Next: 1. Special teams will boost Pats to victory

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